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Using "sea legs" figuratively

English Language & Usage Asked on August 26, 2021

In most dictionaries, the plural noun "sea legs" refers to the ability to keep balance while walking on the deck of a moving ship.

My question is whether we can use it figuratively to describe general situations that may happen in our everyday life. For example, would it be correct to say:

Finally, Jane found her sea legs after years of emotional instability.

One Answer

Yes.

The Free Dictionary gives the figurative use:

sea legs

The ability to adjust to a new situation or difficult conditions, as in She's only spoken in public a few times; she hasn't found her sea legs yet. This expression was first recorded in 1712 and then referred to, as it still does, the ability to walk steadily on board ship, especially in rough seas. By the late 1800s it was being transferred to other challenging situations.

Correct answer by Weather Vane on August 26, 2021

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